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French auction house offering fake Omega crystal ball

  1. OMTOM Oct 28, 2020

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    It is sad to see French auction house Alexandre Landre offering the following as
    "OMEGA. PENDULETTE D'OFFICIER” in their auction on 31 October:

    aa.jpg

    These fakes are to be found everywhere (they are currently available on eBay) and have nothing to do with Omega.

    I appreciate that auctioneers Alexandre Landre may not be watch specialists and might (possibly!) have been led to believe that the watch is genuine (as genuine as a Renault with a Ferrari badge on the back). I contacted the auction house with all the information necessary for them to understand how they are exposing themselves to ridicule – and I have telephoned twice – so far with no effect.

    There are many threads on this website that refer to these fakes.
    Just in case you are not aware, I recommend that you do not consider this watch as a genuine item – it hasn’t been near any officer!
    And in view of their poor response, Alexandre Landre should perhaps be of concern.

    As always, caveat emptor!
     
  2. Marsimaxam Oct 28, 2020

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    I am not familiar with Alexandre Landre, but, any reputable auction house should do their diligent research, especially once notified of a suspicious item in their sale and provided with supporting documents. I, unfortunately, believe, especially among lesser known firms, that this is a common practice and the auction houses abide by the rule... buyer beware.

    For example, Sotheby's, it appears does, try to avoid selling fakes, and if they do sell a fake in error, they will take the necessary steps to resolve the matter, of course, my example involves art not watches. Also this quote from their website, is a bit disconcerting...
    "Please also note that Sotheby's does not authenticate objects or artworks submitted"

    Links: https://news.artnet.com/art-world/seller-must-repay-sothebys-fake-old-master-1391008

    https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/fakes-forgeries-and-the-experts-who-spot-them

    https://www.ablogtowatch.com/10-things-know-wrist-watch-auctions/
     
    watchyouwant and OMTOM like this.